- Softer global growth due to geopolitical risks
- Irish economy to post weaker growth due to uncertainty
- Consumers will continue to expand spending
- Inflation will rise, but not expected to reach 2022 levels
The global economy started 2026 on a strong footing. Indeed, US tariffs have not escalated to the extent expected post ‘Liberation Day’ in April 2025, and some measures were struck out, at least temporarily, by the US Supreme Court in early 2026. A key driver of this resilience has been the surge in AI-related investment, particularly in the US.